What Does a Millstone Do?

Millstone, one of a pair of flat, round stones used for grinding grain. One millstone is stationary; the other rotates above it in a horizontal plane.

How does a millstone work?

Millstones come in pairs: a convex stationary base known as the bedstone and a concave runner stone that rotates. The movement of the runner on top of the bedstone creates a "scissoring" action that grinds grain trapped between the stones.

Are millstones still used?

Millstones survive long after they are no longer used in milling because they are such massive pieces of stone. Common uses for them have included paving stones, building materials, and stepping stones or front stoops for the miller's house.